Zinc Poisoning from Denture Cream

If you are one of the 35 million Americans who use denture cream you could be at risk for zinc poisoning. Research has shown that liberal use of denture creams like Poligrip and Fixodent can lead to denture cream related zinc poisoning. Zinc poisoning can cause copper deficiency, which may result in neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakening in one’s hands, arms, feet, and legs, or in more severe cases, neuropathy or paralysis. Many zinc poisoning injuries may lead to permanent damage, even after the consumer stops using denture cream.

The connection between denture cream use, zinc poisoning and neuropathy was revealed in a study by the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. After studying patients exhibiting neuropathy from zinc poisoning, the researchers determined that the common thread between the patients was their use of large amounts of denture cream. According to the report, patients used at least two tubes a week as opposed to the suggested amount of one tube every three to ten weeks. The overuse of denture cream could be attributed to ill fitting dentures, a common problem for long time denture wearers.

Zinc Poisoning in the News

On February 18, 2010, GlaxoSmithKline PLC, the manufacturer of Poligrip denture creams, announced it would stop manufacturing, marketing, and advertising Original Poligrip, Ultra Fresh Poligrip, and Extra Care Super Poligrip.

In addressing the dangers of zinc poisoning in their Poligrip products, a representative from GlaxoSmithKline PLC stated: “We are taking these actions because we have become aware of potential health problems associated with the long-term excessive use of our zinc-containing denture adhesive products.”

Denture Cream Lawsuit

The FDA does not require denture cream products to carry a zinc poisoning warning. Consequently, many denture cream users have become victims of zinc poisoning and have become permanently disabled and unable to work. Lawyers representing these injured victims and involved in the Denture Cream Lawsuits, praised the move by GlaxoSmithKline to stop manufacturing the dangerous products. Many lawyers, however, complained that the manufacturer’s decision came too late to help their clients.